Alan Klapmeier Takes Lead Position at Kestrel

Klapmeier said there could be other changes to facilitate production. For example, the elliptical leading edge of the wing could give way to a straighter configuration in the name of production simplicity and lighter weight. "We could save a few hundred pounds with a simpler front spar," said Klapmeier. He also said the team is starting the redesign with no commitment to previous certification timetables or performance targets. The previously announced 350-knot cruise speed could give way to other priorities, such as cabin space and engine choice. Asked if GE's recently announced developmental turboprop engine might factor into the future of the Kestrel, Klapmeier revealed a smile.

His relationship with the UK Kestrel team dates back to when they originally conferred with Cirrus on possible component manufacturing agreements. Klapmeier said he was always impressed, but didn't realize how far the project had progressed until he began detailed conversations. He said, "I'd ask what I thought were tough questions on engineering problems, and they'd say, 'Oh yeah, we have a paper on that that. We'll send it to you.' Eventually, I realized how serious they have been about the project. Much more than so many other concept aircraft of this type." Development is expected to cost a total of $100 million, of which about $20 million has already been spent. Incentives from the state of Maine and Brunswick Landing, which will administer the site after the Navy closes it later this year, leave about $25 million more needed in private investment funding. Also on the Kestrel management team is Edward Underwood, retired executive director of Arcapita, the Bahrain-based finance house that backs Cirrus.